I READ with horror the article on Aston Fields Middle School 'prom'.

As a parent of a 14-year-old I think it is ridiculous that children as young as 12 are being encouraged to take part in such an event. The school, parents, and the Advertiser/Messenger are obviously endorsing this practice. It has long since been practice for high school leavers to have a prom. But now they are starting at middle school what will they do at high school - travel by helicopter?

Also, the cost of these events is ridiculous. I've heard of girl's prom dress costing £140, and then there is the hairdo, nails, shoes and the limo costs about £15 each. It could easily add up to £200, and this puts great pressure on parents.

Children of 12 and 13 are too immature for such an event . I witnessed them on the Friday night with the limo windows open and dangerously hanging out of the windows. Also, a colleague of mine witnessed Aston Fields Middle School pupils who were not joining in actually throwing chips at a passing limo.

I feel it is too much too soon, and hope that the other middle schools in Bromsgrove do not follow suit. What is wrong with the usual leavers' disco/party?

Sue Nokes

Bromsgrove